1,049 Thefts from Cars Reported in the Devonshire Division

Burglaries and thefts from motor vehicles have increased in the area patrolled by the Los Angeles Police Department's Devonshire Division, detectives announced Monday.

Economic hardships have caused criminals to focus on simple, but effective strategies for quick and easy gains, according to detectives.

There have been 1,049 thefts this year in the division, which includes Chatsworth, Canoga Park, Northridge, Porter Ranch and West Hills, 856 of which could have been avoided, detectives said. The loses conservatively exceeded $1 million worth, according to detectives.

Detectives advised the public to:

• Lock and secure your vehicle and always set your alarm or use an anti- theft device;
• Don't leave valuables such as cellphones, compact disc players, briefcases or backpacks in plain view. Put them in car trunks instead;
• Lock all doors and windows, including in residences;
• Record the serial numbers of electronic and computers;
• Call 911 if you see suspicious activity.

More information is available by calling theft or auto detectives at 818-832-0609.

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